You might be wondering, “So what the heck is this Monday Poll thing anyway?”

Well, it isn’t much of a poll. It’s more just a constantly evolving (devolving?), somewhat random list of questions I’ve been putting out to readers every Monday morning for the past five years. I’ve always enjoyed reading your answers in the comments, and I hope you enjoy reading mine.

One makeup or beauty product you can’t stop hoarding?
It’s not “one” product in the strict technical sense…but coral everything — lipsticks, glosses, eyeshadows. I like the way coral works with my warm skin tone. When I’m stumped for what to wear, it’s a no-brainer for me.

What did you have for breakfast this morning?
A Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Larabar (been eating a lot of these lately) and a big-@ss cup of Kona coffee with almond milk and a teaspoon of sugar.

I’m happiest when ______.
I’m ahead of my deadlines. It’s the worst when I feel like I’m behind schedule.

Don’t be afraid of ______.
Change. I’m definitely getting more set in my ways as I get older, and it’s a little frightening… It’s harder to go with the flow for me than it used to be. I have to force myself to try new things.

What’s one of your mantras?
“You can cry when you’re done.”

I’m an emotional person, and the tears come easily, especially when I’m overwhelmed, but crying can get in the way sometimes, you know? It can be hard to stop once I start, so I try to hold it together long enough to finish whatever I’m working on…and THEN I shut the door and lose my sh*t.

Something that inspires you?
People who are passionate about learning. Doesn’t matter what the subject is, really. If they love something and talk about it passionately, I get fired up, too!

What’s your secret passion?
Song writing.

You’d be surprised if you saw my _______.
Shoe collection. ‘Cause it ain’t small — that’s all I have to say. I only wear about half of the pairs these days because I recently decided to only wear shoes that I could easily outrun zombies in…because it’s only a matter of time before Z-Day goes down, obvs.

One thing you love about your job?
My boss. He’s such a sh*t talker, but as far as bosses go, he’s not half bad. 😉

Something you have to do this week?
Make an appointment to get my hair did. My roots are completely out of control!

Now it’s your turn. Just copy and paste the following questions into a comment with your answers. I look forward to reading ’em!

1. One makeup or beauty product you can’t stop hoarding?
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
3. I’m happiest when ______.
4. Don’t be afraid of ______.
5. What’s one of your mantras?
6. Something that inspires you?
7. What’s your secret passion?
8. You’d be surprised if you could see my ______.
9. One thing you love about your job?
10. Something you have to do this week?

So far, 59 people have commented on this article. How cool is that?

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? I seem to be gathering a good bit of everything, but it seems like I have a lot of eyeliners!
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? cinnamon raisin bagel with cream cheese!
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I’m around my baby boy or hubby.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. anything!
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? You can cry if you want to! We sang this on my 1st birthday and I’ve always believed in it no matter what situation!
6. Something that inspires you? Music!
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? makeup!
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Clothes! I love makeup, but clothing is just a drab for me.
9. One thing you love about your job? I take care of my baby all day
10. Something you have to do this week? Vacuum the floors!

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
Lipstick/gloss/balm. Especially anything that’s double (or triple) duty like the YSL Glossy Stains. OBSESSED with them! So easy, so hydrating and so pretty.

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Chocolate milk and I’m gonna pick up some donuts at this AMAZING little place next to Dinah’s (my cat) groomer when I drop her off for a haircut in a little while! My breakfast sounds like something a 6-year-old would request.

3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______.
I’m at home with my hub-to-be and the cat, relaxing. Or shopping solo on Rodeo.

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
Missing out! I used to be one of those people who would HAVE to go out on Friday and Saturday nights even if I wasn’t feeling it because I didn’t want to miss anything. Moving away made me realize that sometimes a night in can be even better than a night out… especially if your cat is feeling extra cuddly.

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I’m EXTREMELY stubborn and ever since I was little, I’ve had a hard time asking for help from anyone. This past year has been crazy and I had to learn that asking for help (especially from family) doesn’t make me weak, it makes me strong. I still have a hard time with it, but I’m getting better! And it’s made a world of difference knowing that there are so many amazing people in my life so happy and eager to help me through what could be difficult, but isn’t difficult because of them!

6. Something that inspires you?
Art. When I’m feeling uninspired, I love walking around LACMA and looking at things a little differently. It always helps.

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
COOKING! I wanted to be a chef when I was younger, but that dream died when I realized how overwhelming working in a kitchen would be. I’m not the best cook (ask Ben), but I’m getting better!

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______.
Closet! And makeup collection. For a girl who’s a minimalist when it comes to everyday makeup and a different variation of the same outfit almost every day (jeans, a tee, flats, a sweater and huge sunglasses), I have a very extensive (and diverse) closet and a LOT of makeup!

9. One thing you love about your job?
I’m a wedding planner and for me the best part is the day of the wedding. It’s a stressful job, but it all becomes worth it when the groom sees the bride for the first time walking down the aisle. Makes me cry EVERY time! PLUS the day of the wedding means 12ish hours and that one is OVER! I get to see all my work come together into one beautiful day and then I don’t have to think about it ever again.

10. Something you have to do this week?
Go to the chiropractor tomorrow. This pregnancy is KILLING my back so hopefully there’s something he can do! And KEEP THE HOUSE CLEAN. I had it clean from top to bottom with all of our laundry done last week so my goal is to carry that over as far as I can!

Thanks! I’ve been a wedding planner for the past 7 months. My dad owns a company in Chicago that puts on conventions and I worked with him every summer in high school, so I’ve always had event planning in my blood and while helping my mom plan her second wedding, I knew it was what I wanted to do!

Well, I’m on the Sunday School team at church and we’re starting to gain some momentum…. a family with four kids just started attending, so the opportunities are increasing.

Speaking of my little buddy, on our most recent trip to ULTA, aka his “favorite place in the whole world” he rushed to the Pop Beauty section and insisted I get the lip color in Fuschia Freesia because “that’s what Tabs recommends.” He remembered the brand and shade! Amazing…

Happy Monday to you too! I want to visit a cat-lady-centric dental office, LOL! I’m sure kitty talk would make the process much less painful. Speaking of cats, how’s Mingy and crew doing? Tabs has been very sweet since I got back from Vegas, which means it’s only a matter of days before he turns on me again.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Eyeshadow, for sure!

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? A big bowl of All Bran with milk, and some pineapple fruit yoghurt.

3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I can just relax and be together with my boyfriend.

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. Spiders. And definitely don’t kill them. Srsly, what did they ever do to you, except for maybe scare you?

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Treat others they way you want them to treat yoy.

6. Something that inspires you? You! And your blog Big inspiration.

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Oh I don’t think I have a passion that no one knows about. I am pretty vocal about what I love, hehe.

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Feet. They are monstrous. Especially the toes.

9. One thing you love about your job? I am still looking for one

10. Something you have to do this week? I have a big press event in Zurich on Wednesday, exciting! Which reminds me, I need to download an e-book to keep busy on the train there.Kiss & Make-up recently posted … Make-up look | Fall 2013 make-up look with IsaDora

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Lately it’s eyeliners! I used to always just use brown liner (liquid or gel, never pencil) but I’ve been hoarding different pencil liners lately! Just bought two Chanel pencils in Beryl and Khaki Precieux for the nuptials (12 days!), also bought some of the $6 old formula UD pencils.

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Trader Joe’s strawberry Greek yogurt, Joe’s O’s cereal with TJ unsweetened vanilla almond milk (I sound like a Trader Joe’s ad!), and a little bit of Count Chocula with almond milk (’tis the season!)

3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I’ve done yoga, taken a bath, and am relaxing in my PJ’s with Zack, Jiji, and Quincy.

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. adventure! I was terrified of going on my study abroad, but it was the best experience of my life, and changed my life.

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? One of my favorite things from my dad is “F*** those people.” You know THOSE people, who just don’t matter, stress you out, are toxic…

6. Something that inspires you? People who really care and are passionate about what they do! Especially in professors!

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Gmail inbox. I have three or four emails that route into there, and I keep it pretty meticulously organized. There’s an entire folder for shopping :p

9. One thing you love about your job? I love research, and that I get to learn new things! I’m currently working as a graduate assistant in a college of business.

10. Something you have to do this week? Read my chapters for my classes, ugh! Also, do trials of how I want to do my makeup for the nuptials! I have a general idea of what I want, but I need to practice and take pictures! Also, figure out how I want my hair did.

Apparently I forgot number 7… I don’t know that I have a secret passion! My passions are French language and things (major Francophile), cosmetics, fashion, and bunnies… all of which are pretty obvious if you talk to me! I’m definitely passionate about buns – my cubemates at my internship this summer said they were going to miss the bunny-related conversations! (They were always asking me about bunnies…)

Probably classic/natural. I wear pretty natural makeup most days, so I want to look like myself. Foundation, concealer, peachy cheeks and lips (Becca Beach Tint in grapefruit, most likely, layered with a bit of a peach Revlon lippie on the lips), neutrals on the eyes. I’m wearing the Chanel Le Volume in Khaki Bronze (with a waterproof topcoat), and probably the matching waterproof liner (with a tightline of a darker brown to make my lashes look a bit thicker). I also bought the Beryl eyeliner to use on the inner corners and inner rim to brighten things up.

I’ve been wearing so little makeup lately (concealer where needed, brows, blush, eyeliner, and mascara). My skin’s in pretty good shape right now – I tried a face oil that gave me a nodule-type pimple, but it’s almost gone, so that’s good. I might schedule a derm appointment just to make sure.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
Sunscreen. I have at least a dozen different kinds — some all natural, some tinted, some with added anti-oxidants, some for the body, some just for the face…

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Coffee with milk, half a banana and a fresh passionfruit (gift from a neighbor with a prolific vine!)

3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______.
I’m creating… just hanging out and drawing on something.

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
Trying something new. You never know what you will find! I decided to take my morning walk at a different park yesterday and found a group of folks practicing T’ai Chi — and they let me join in — it was so much fun! (and now my thighs are really sore! LOL!)

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Bobby pins! So ridiculous. I am growing out last winter’s bangs, and like to pin what’s there now back. I have panic attacks if the number of available bobby pins falls somewhere below 58,000! I’m not even talking the cute, rainbow colored or sparkly ones–just plain blonde pins!
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Nada. Shameful, I know
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I have no “fire-drills”–family, work, or personal–pending. Seems like its been FOREVER since that has been the case!
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. Being the “bad guy” sometimes. This applies to me a lot at work, but I’m finding it helpful in my home life too (i.e. raising a tween–can’t be a best friend, have to be a mom!)
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Fake it til you make it!
6. Something that inspires you? My kid. I vacillate between wanting to cuddle the s–t out of her and wanting to choke her (totally kidding! Don’t report me!), but she’s got such a bad-ass, no fear approach to everything she does that is so inspiring.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Damnit…bad reality tv! I (secretly) refuse to miss any of my Housewives!
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Ugghhhh…bedroom closet. I am such a control freak, and OCD-ish about organization. Meanwhile, my bedroom closet is like a warzone. It takes massive strategy to get the door to close and stay closed!
9. One thing you love about your job? WROOOOOOONG week to ask this question! Not a damn thing right now!
10. Something you have to do this week? Your “have-to” may be different than my “have-to,” Karen. My real to do list is a mile long, but it is topped by a sanity-crucial day of pampering that MUST be done–massage, blow-out, pedicure, soap-opera watching, etc.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Lip Gloss…I think I have the same shade from every brand..haha
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Tea with milk
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. With my family or on tennis court.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. Taking a risk
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Just do it. haha..Good old Nike!
6. Something that inspires you? The World
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Not sure if it is a secret but tennis!
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Hmm not sure on this.
9. One thing you love about your job? The people
10. Something you have to do this week? Run..I signed up for a half marathon at end of month and haven’t run in 2 weeks.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
Lipstick. T_T
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Pb&j on homemade bread, coffee, and some greek yogurt with toasted coconut.
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______.
Snuggled up on the couch with human and canine companions
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
Speaking your mind! So long as you are polite about it. Haha.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
If you don’t have anything nice to say – !
6. Something that inspires you?
Actually, our dog, sometimes. He’s a rescue and he’s come around beautifully. If dogs can be so resilient and bounce back, humans can too.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
Poetry? HAHA.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______.
closet. It’s an absolute mess right now.
9. One thing you love about your job?
The creative aspect, actually. And the autonomy.
10. Something you have to do this week?
MEETINGS ALL OVER THE PLACE.Larie recently posted … A Happy Mask: Ole Henriksen Blue/Black Berry Enzyme Mask

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
I’m really into the Boot no 7 products lately
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
A granola bar
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______.
I’m seeing Jerrod Niemann in concert
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
Trying! I always try things at least once
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
Karma Karma Karma!
6. Something that inspires you?
Country Music
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
To Interview Country Stars
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______.
Wizard of Oz collection
9. One thing you love about your job?
I’m sadly Unemployed right now
10. Something you have to do this week?
Find a Job!!!

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Lip Gloss
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Parfait
3. Iâ€™m happiest when I have completed all tasks for the day. At the end of the day I like to feel accomplished.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of _challenge_____.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Never regret!!
6. Something that inspires you? The passion in others keeps me going.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Writing love stories.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my handbag collection.
9. One thing you love about your job? Never boring, always something new everyday.
10. Something you have to do this week? Reorganize makeup collection.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Eyeshadows have a million different brown and nude eye shadows but I’m always looking for better ones lol
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Eye sandwich
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I’m around my friends and family
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. Things unknown
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Keep positive and happy people around you because negativity spreads from person to person. Life is too short to be unhappy all the time
6. Something that inspires you? YouTube gurus
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Makeuo artistry if I didn’t have a successful full time job I would much rather be doing people’s makeup
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Obsession of Harry potter lol
9. One thing you love about your job? Talking and meeting so many people. Conversations are the best part of my day.
10. Something you have to do this week? Get my extensions cut!

What’s up, Karen!!! I love Mondays when I get the time to do this poll!! 😀

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
Shades of pink lipstick. I have so many!! That and just eyeshadow in general.
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
A blueberry breakfast bar. I’ve been on a blueberry flavored everything craze lately.
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______.
I accomplish something I’ve worked hard for. Recent example, I passed an insurance exam last Saturday. AAH 😀
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
being yourself. You are who you are, don’t let anyone or anything tell you that what you like or what you wear is wrong!
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
We’ll get there when we get there–Whether I find out that I will be later than usual to an event because of traffic, or when I’m waiting for a response after a job interview, or when I don’t succeed the first time. We will get there when we get there.
6. Something that inspires you?
Individuals with great minds!
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
Practicing/playing my guitar and singing.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______.
..jigsaw puzzle collection? lol. It’s the first thing I thought of. Instead of paintings in a room I would love to put up completed puzzles on my walls.
9. One thing you love about your job?
I work as a call center rep for insurance, so I love those little moments when callers just say “thank you for being there”.
10. Something you have to do this week?
Eat chicken and waffles with my friend this weekend!

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Lipstick, I’m always searching for the “perfect one”
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Dark rye bread with avocado and Annie’s spread.
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I’m near the ocean.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. Learning new things. There’s a world of knowledge out there!
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? You can do this! I know it’s simple, but after going back to school in my mid-30s, I sometimes feel intimidated and reminding myself that I CAN do it is really helpful.
6. Something that inspires you? Visual stimulation. Whether it’s art or simply going for a walk and really seeng what’s around me.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Nothing secret, I like sharing what I love.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Oh, also shoe collection. It’s huge, like well over 100 pairs.
9. One thing you love about your job? Flexible hours.
10. Something you have to do this week? Study. A lot.

Karen. I LIVE for these Monday polls (or at least, on Mondays I do That is so cool that you are (secretly) into song writing! I would never have guessed, but I can totally see it!

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? – Red lipstick. Or lacquer. Or stain. I’m obsessed with reds and will find any occasion to wear them. Except work- I have to be very subtle about red at work.
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? – Coffeecoffeecoffee, a peanut butter oatmeal thing, and then someone brought in muffins/bagels so I had a little muffin for a late-morning snack!
3. Iâ€™m happiest when: I’m in the water! It’s crazy how stress-relieving a shower, bath, or swim can be. Honestly I drop out of the world during a shower.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of: letting people know how you feel. Something I see a lot is how reluctant my friends/peers are to express their malcontent/love/confusion/ANYTHING, whether to partners, family, or anyone! You don’t have to rant and rave or gush and spout sentiment (unless that’s your personality or you’re having one of those days), but nobody can guess how you are feeling unless you give them some kind of sign!
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? – I don’t really have a mantra (that I can think of off the top of my head!), but I live by that cheesy phrase, “You’re never fully dressed without a smile” (exceptions being sultry pouts and sexy snarls!)
6. Something that inspires you? – Good literature! No matter the genre (I like fantasy and thrillers particularly!), a well-written story gets me thinking and dreaming like nothing else!
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? – Mythology! I absolutely love reading about the Greek gods and ancient Greece. I took a class on Mythology in college, was forced to because I went to a liberal arts school and you needed core credits in some kind of ancient civilization, and I ended up LOVING it!! But nobody knows how much I loved it (til now), except for my professor! I still read lots of the Greek comedies and mythological fiction as well.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my: room/closet. Anybody who knows me thinks I am very put-together, organized, and tasteful (all true, I like to think!) but my personal space would horrify anybody. I’ve had such hoarding/clutter issues in the past and it’s an ongoing battle to get the space of my dreams!
9. One thing you love about your job? – THE PEOPLE!! I work with the funniest, kindest, most interesting people- best job I ever had!
10. Something you have to do this week? – Plan my birthday party (it’s on Saturday!), get a costume together for a different party on Friday night (Poison Ivy for a superhero/supervillain party!), and order that jewel-toned Sonia Kashuk palette. So excited to wear those pretty shades all fall/winter long!

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Lipsticks n lip glosses
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Leftover chicken strips from Zaxbys
3. Iâ€™m happiest when I’m playing in my makeup.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of crying.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? It’ll grow back (in reference to hair experiments, lol)
6. Something that inspires you? People passionate about their craft.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? To become a renowned make up artist/ hair stylist
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my shoe collection Iis getting a lil cray. Lol
9. One thing you love about your job? That it ends at 5pm. Lol
10. Something you have to do this week? Grocery shopping, definitely!

1.One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Nail polish—for the wide range of colors that you can change to match an outfit, your mood, or the current season trends
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? funfetti waffles
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I’m curled up at home by the fireplace with a good book or a massive movie or TV marathon on Netflix along with some sweet and savory treats.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. Other’s accomplishments. Everyone goes at their own pace and as long as you are true to yourself, you will not be bogged down by others.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Look out for your loved ones. With how busy everyone gets, it’s easy to get lost in our daily lives. But nothing in life is truly great unless you have someone to share the details with.
6. Something that inspires you? People who always have a bazillion back-up plans. When things don’t go as planned, it’s easy to freak out but the more you plan for the unexpected, the more likely things run quite smoothly.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? gift shopping for others, I get a thrill in finding the perfect thing and matching a card to the present
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. coffee mug collection—I never get bored of collecting them and I rotate all of them for regular use.
9. One thing you love about your job? The faces of those who pick up French and are so proud to share what they have learned.
10. Something you have to do this week? Hammer through GRE practice books, once I start, I’ll feel better.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
NAIL POLISH. I’ve finally gotten decent at painting my own nails and I just love painting my nails to suit my mood. It just makes my hands feel more happy

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? I had a tomato egg scallion sandwich! The recipe is from Skinny Taste! I found out about that AWESOME site from your blog. I’m in the process of losing weight and eating healthier so I’ve been turning to that recipe blog a lot lately.

3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______.
I’m not stressed out about having to finish something on time or making an appointment on time. Totally going to be crazy stressed out once I get back to school again!

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
Taking risks. I’m definitely one to belief better to be safe than sorry but I’m trying to be more adventurous and savor the time of my youth. I plan to spend this year trying new things and exploring around (I get lost easily so just getting to know more parts of San Diego will be pretty big for me).

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? “It’s better to have tried than not try at all.”

I definitely have a fear of failure mentality but, even when things don’t necessarily go as expected I remind myself that at least I gave it my all and that there’s always a reason for everything.

6. Something that inspires you?
Definitely when I talk to scientists and grad students about their current research. I love seeing those sparks of passion fly out and it just makes me want to learn more and have that kind of love and dedication for something.

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Choreography.

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Room. I’m *still* in the process of organizing and replacing the old with the new.

9. One thing you love about your job? I get to spend a lot of time with my family!

10. Something you have to do this week? Work on my essays for my grad school applications. I have one month till I plan to submit! Eeep!

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? I tend to hoard nail polish. It’s small and many are very inexpensive and I find myself thinking “why not” and tossing them into my cart.
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?Coffee. I’m not a breakfast eater.
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. My kids are home.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.White water rafting. It’s a blast
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Om (hahaha)
6. Something that inspires you? Artistic kids. It’s amazing what they come up with.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? None of my passions are secret. I’m out of the closet.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______.Feet. They’re wrecked and hideous!
9. One thing you love about your job? I love that I have no job: ) I’m retired.
10. Something you have to do this week. Clean and organize my kitchen cabinets.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? at the moment it’s red lipstick
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Brown Sugar Oatmeal w/ bananas
3. Iâ€™m happiest when I’m at the beach.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of change and love.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? You have to teach people how to treat you. It’s tied with a hard head makes a soft ass.
6. Something that inspires you? seeing other people succeed
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion: No so secret actually, but 1930’s and 40’s Film Noir
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my: Oh you don’t know me like THAT! lolol.
9. One thing you love about your job? Interacting with people
10. Something you have to do this week? Sort my lipsticks

Hi Karen!
I am an everyday reader of your blog from French Canada and I just wanted to say your blog is awesome. I really like your pictures (especially of Tab since I am a cat lover and the proud mother of a fluffy ragdollcat) and the way you write about beauty and so much more. Reading you is one of my daily sunshines 😉
For the first time I answer the poll:
1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
Hmmm, I hoard makeup in general ^^ But I am a great Dior nailpolishes addict.
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Chocolate milk, toasted whole wheat bread with honey.
3. Iâ€™m happiest when I am browsing the internet on a cold winter night with my cat purring on my lap.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of tomorrow.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
Yesterday does not exist any more, tomorrow does not exist yet, so enjoy today!
6. Something that inspires you?
Nature (especially trees. Always changing, always beautiful, strong and weak.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
Teenager books and tv series (I am 35, no comment!!). I like the Twilight saga and stuff like that…
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my night wears. I always sleep with old shapeless t-shirts I buy when I travel and wear for sleep until it comes to pieces… Now I am finishing my Cozumel tee!
9. One thing you love about your job?
Flextime. I can come and leave my office whenever I like, as long as I am present 7 hrs a day. Really nice!
10. Something you have to do this week?
Go shopping with my fashion stylist. I know how to wear makeup (and how to buy it!), but am unsure when it comes to clothing…

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
it’s a tie between mascara and blush! i have a weakness for both.

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
i didn’t eat breakfast, i was running late to work, and was late anyway because of construction.

3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______.
im doing my makeup for the day, or when i leave work for the day.

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
taking care of yourself before others. it does wonders.

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
“everything happens for a reason.” my grandma told me this when i was little, and it is SO true. whether or not you can see it, there is a reason for everything.

6. Something that inspires you?
the ocean! everything about it- the creatures, plants, salt water, the sound, movement. rocky beaches and tidepools. the california coast…big sur. i love it. i think i have a small obsession…

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
cooking. i worked in a kitchen for a while, but i love experimenting at home. it’s so much calmer!

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______.
room. it’s not super clean right now. tomorrow’s my day off so we’ll see.

9. One thing you love about your job?
a select few of the people that i work with are amazing.

10. Something you have to do this week?
schedule a consultation for laser hair removal, and keep looking for a new job.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Lip products — lip stains, lipsticks, lip tints, lip balms, lip tar — you name it. Every time I go shopping I’m always tempted to buy more lip products in various different colors and consistencies.

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Nothing, but I had some pineapple after my morning classes.

3. Iâ€™m happiest when I’m surrounded by people I love and am not worried about any upcoming assignments because I’m ahead of my deadlines.

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of spontaneity and speaking in front of people.

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Don’t know if it counts, but “just keep breathing” is something I seem to say a lot when times get tough.

6. Something that inspires you? Almost anything haha, but passionate people, books, the world around me, and my culture.

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? I don’t think any of my passions are secret, but my love for singing my be secret since I never really sing in front of anyone.

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my writing journal, haha, I’m not quite sure what would surprise people. My creative nonfiction may be something that surprises some people though.

9. One thing you love about your job? I’m currently an undergrad student, but I work at my university’s library. I love seeing what new journals we get and secretly browsing through some of the writing and fashion magazines before I put them on display. Also, I love talking with one of my coworkers because we switch from Spanish to English and I can’t really do that with anyone else at school.

10. Something you have to do this week? I’m super nervous because I have to give a short presentation on Friday in one of my classes. I’m not one for speaking in front of people, but I’m sure it’ll be fine.

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Wheat toast with avocado spread on it.

3. Iâ€™m happiest when my life feels balanced out. Not too much idle time, not too much work, definitely some meaningful challenges but not overwhelming, etc.

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of failing. I’m very afraid of it so it is important for me to remember that failing is a very important part of growing and improvement.

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Dory said it best: “Just keep swimming.”

6. Something that inspires you? Hmm…real life. As much as I love fiction, I always find inspiration in reality–as horrible as it can be. You know, a plant here determinedly staying alive despite the drought. A stranger off the streets clearly experiencing hard times but politely asking if he can clean your windows and straighten up the grounds to make some money. This is all inspiration to me.

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Lol…makeup is actually a secret passion of mine. I’m quite the plain Jane on the street–I hardly ever even polish my nails despite my collection. Even friends who know about my love for makeup tell me “you have such great skin” or “you clearly don’t need makeup.” And I’d think…uuuhh, no honey. What you’re seeing IS my makeup.

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you saw see me without my glasses. I don’t know but people never recognize me unless I actually say something.

9. One thing you love about your job? I don’t have to sit for long hours. I get to see all kinds of people and of course, I love my boss (I work with family).

10. Something you have to do this week? Return some things. Purge some clothes and books.

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? nail polish. I actually have an over the door shoe bag thing in the hall closet filled with nail polish. it’s easy to see the colors that way.
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? coffee with cream and sugar and wheat toast with butter
3. Iâ€™m happiest when I am relaxing on the couch with my pup.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of the unknown!
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Keep it simple, stupid.
6. Something that inspires you? My parents! They are 85 and parents of nine children, grandparents to 12 and great-grandparents to 12. They have also been married for 64 years and are still in love with each other.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Snyder’s Cheddar Cheese Pretzel pieces. It’s no secret in my house. My kids refer to it as “Mom’s crack” Its so addictive I will only allow myself 1/3 cup a day, the recommended serving.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see under my bed. Someday I will get to it.
9. One thing you love about your job? The patients. I know, somedays there will be a difficult one, but I genuinely love helping people.
10. Something you have to do this week? Clean the hamster cage. It’s a pain in the azz

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Lip gloss. So many!!!
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? 2 waffles and a pinch of syrup, a biggg cup of coffee
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I’m laughing.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. Trying. You fall you get up.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? Just do it.
6. Something that inspires you? People that persevere through major struggles and keep a positive attitude.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Makeup!
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Shoe collection. So many yet I wear so few.
9. One thing you love about your job? Watching teachers and kids grow and learn. Being a part of that is really great and inspiring.
10. Something you have to do this week? Work out and get adjusted to being back on my work schedule.

I’M LATE! Well, I have a good reason for that; I was at the ER getting my finger looked at. So much drama over the weekend! Zena was attacked by the neighbor’s dog, the neighbor’s tried to blame me for it instead of them and now my finger is fractured from said attack! UGH!!!!!

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
Doing something you know is right, even if it’s something that may burn bridges or may not be the most popular decision.

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
“If you want to be able to look at yourself in the mirror, live your life honestly and positively.”

I used to live a really negative life where I used to do a lot of bad stuff to myself (and, frankly, others.) This is one of those ideas that have helped me change myself.

6. Something that inspires you?
Everything! There’s inspiration anywhere you look, you just have to look hard enough!

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
Crafting. I love to craft. Sometimes I’ll see something on Etsy that I really like, balk at the price and say, “Nope, I’m DIY’ing that,” and I’ll DIY it! Sometimes I know it’s out of my depth and save up to buy it!

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______.
Nail polish collection. I have 110+ nail varnishes!

9. One thing you love about your job?
I can sleep in as much as I want! Well…until Zena demands I get up!

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
~Eye makeup. I am addicted to it, probably because it makes my green-hazel eyes stand out more. I love anything from neutrals to brights to shimmery and iridescent, but lately I’ve been loving more gold, bronze, and taupe neutrals (probably because I’ve had to go to a lot of professional type things).

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
~Pumpkin donut and iced coffee. Last shift before my new career starting in 2 weeks.

3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______.
~I achieve something difficult or overcome a challenge. I am a perfectionist, and while I’ve gotten better about it as I’ve gotten older (I don’t get so outright frustrated at myself anymore), I still am happiest when I get things right and achieve my goals.

4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______.
~Losing friends or people you were once friendly with. A hard lesson for me to learn, but if they can’t appreciate me for who I am or be forgiving when I do make mistakes, then they are not for me. I do my best workouts now because of those people; my doubters only push me to work harder even if they will never see me again or the results.

5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
~I have several: What doesn’t challenge you doesn’t change you; You are stronger than the person that didn’t try at all; and People in your life will come and go, the ones that stay are the important ones.

6. Something that inspires you?
~Strong, fit people; people that have fought long and hard on something extremely traumatic and difficult and won; and, Pinterest has been my inspiration for makeup, fitness, and everything in between.

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
~As much of a tomboy as I am, I enjoy wearing makeup, doing my hair, and looking pretty for a night out or day out with friends/family/hubby.

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______.
~Closet/Dresser. I have a good amount of clothes but probably only wear half of them, and that is with going through the clothes every year and getting rid of what I don’t wear. I am such a jeans and t-shirt/tank top/hoodie girl that that is mostly what I wear.

9. One thing you love about your job?
~One thing I loved about my old job was taking care of people and learning all about trauma and different ER cases. One thing I will love about my new job is I will still be taking care of the community but I will be extremely highly trained.

10. Something you have to do this week?
~Exit interview for my volunteering gig, and cleaning stuff up the next 2 weeks before my next career starts.

2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? Roasted kabocha squash and some ground beef cooked with cumin, garlic, and cayenne pepper. I’m doing a Whole30 so breakfast is more like dinner these days.

3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. I have some alone time. Super introvert here.

7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? I don’t think it’s really a secret, but working with kids who have autism. I don’t think I have a secret passion.

8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Spare room/ closet. It’s pretty girly and I don’t think I give the appearance of being THAT girly. My shoe collection’s not so bad, either, but I’m in the process of paring it down.

9. One thing you love about your job? My kids! They are so fun.

10. Something you have to do this week? Get ready for lots of meetings. I have a least one a day all week, which involves lots of writing…

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding? Urban Decay eyeliner. Can you ever have enough? They have amazing colors, and now that I’ve seen your swatches for the upcoming UD collection, they have many many more colors that I NEED!
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning? A slice of bacon, two egg whites, avocado, strawberries, and two cups of coffee. Every morning it’s the same thing, my favorite breakfast!
3. Iâ€™m happiest when ______. The kids have a good dinner, their homework is done, the house is clean, easy evenings.
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of ______. Failure! I know it sounds so cliche’, but I’d rather try something and fail, then regret not doing it.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras? “If I just do it right now, then I’ll have time later.”
6. Something that inspires you? Mandalas, I love the pattern and colors.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion? Writing a novel, it’s halfway written in my head, I just need to put it on paper.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my ______. Nail polish collection. It’s absurd. It takes me a half hour to choose which blue to paint my toenails, that’s ridiculous! But I don’t care!
9. One thing you love about your job? I’m a stay at home Mom, I love being able to raise my children. I love walking them to school. I love knowing their friends. I’m very lucky I’m able to do it.
10. Something you have to do this week? Get sworn in at Emblem Club, go to a meeting at the girls’ school, balance the checkbook, run on the treadmill every day!

1. One makeup or beauty product you canâ€™t stop hoarding?
– I must say eye shadows. I have plenty, but always want more.
2. What did you have for breakfast this morning?
– Coffee and a granola bar
3. Iâ€™m happiest when?
– Its 5pm on payday Friday
4. Donâ€™t be afraid of?
– Being different and doing what you enjoy.
5. Whatâ€™s one of your mantras?
– What goes around comes around.
6. Something that inspires you?
– People that have dreams and work hard to achieve them.
7. Whatâ€™s your secret passion?
– Decoration and planning. Its not very secret, but not many people know that about me.
8. Youâ€™d be surprised if you could see my?
– Body Cream collection. I have about 3 bottles of the same body lotion.
9. One thing you love about your job?
– Learning something new everyday and awesome co workers
10. Something you have to do this week?
– Haven fun

1. I canâ€™t stop hoarding eyebrow stuff. I have five products “only” (not including brushes), but I can’t resist ogling, trying, and searching for latest eyebrow product to hit the market. I’ve restricted myself to finishing up what I have before I give the MUFE liquid eyebrow a go. Hopefully I don’t crack.

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